Great Kingshill Church of England Combined School, located in High Wycombe, Buckinghamshire, has been recognized as a good school following its inspection on June 29 and 30, 2022. The school is characterized by a positive and supportive environment where pupils feel safe and valued. The school’s values of love, courage, forgiveness, hope, respect, and truth are integral to the school culture, contributing to a low incidence of bullying and poor behavior. Pupils express a strong sense of belonging and are encouraged to be welcoming and accepting of others, which fosters a community spirit.
The school offers a broad curriculum that engages pupils and minimizes disruptions to learning. Subject leaders are actively working to define the key knowledge and skills that pupils should acquire by the time they leave the school. While progress has been made in mapping out learning across most subjects, some areas are still developing. Pupils demonstrate a solid understanding in subjects like reading, history, and geography, as the curriculum is designed to build on prior knowledge. The use of knowledge organizers helps pupils showcase their learning and assists teachers in assessing retention.
Pupils with special educational needs and disabilities receive appropriate support, ensuring they can participate fully in lessons. Teachers and teaching assistants are attentive to the individual needs of all pupils, adapting lessons to facilitate inclusion. The school has implemented additional support strategies that do not interfere with the broader curriculum, allowing all pupils to thrive.
Reading is a particular strength of the school, with pupils showing enthusiasm for books and reading activities. The school has established a strong foundation for early reading, with staff trained to deliver effective reading instruction. This support extends to pupils who may struggle, ensuring they receive the necessary help to catch up quickly.
The school also emphasizes the importance of responsibility and community involvement. Year 6 pupils take on leadership roles, such as head boy and head girl, and participate in various ambassadorial positions. This involvement not only reinforces the school’s values but also teaches pupils about democracy and the importance of supporting one another.
Despite the school’s many strengths, there are areas for improvement. Some subjects have identified gaps in pupils’ knowledge, and subject leaders need to enhance their use of assessment to pinpoint these gaps accurately. Additionally, there is a need for further professional development for teachers in certain subjects to ensure they possess the necessary expertise to address misconceptions and deliver the curriculum effectively.
The school’s leadership is committed to reducing teacher workload and providing support, which has been well received by staff. Safeguarding measures are robust, with staff trained to recognize signs that may indicate a need for support among pupils and families. The school prioritizes pupils’ safety, both online and in the community, equipping them with the knowledge to navigate potential risks.
Overall, Great Kingshill Church of England Combined School is a nurturing environment where pupils are encouraged to excel academically and socially. The school’s commitment to its values, combined with a strong focus on inclusivity and support, contributes to a positive educational experience for all pupils. Continued efforts to address identified gaps in knowledge and enhance teacher training will further strengthen the school’s educational offerings.
